Rail security firm on track for growth with £125,000 funding
A Doncaster security company which helps to prevent suicides and vandalism at rail sites has secured a £125,000 loan to boost its expansion which includes creating 20 jobs.
Black Diamond Security monitors security at stations and other rail sites, helping to prevent trespassers and thefts and safeguarding rail infrastructure.
The company, which deploys guards, CCTV cameras and other high-tech security systems, currently employs around 150 people around the UK and expects to create around 20 jobs in the coming months.
Black Diamond was established in 2010 by directors Martin Hawley and Ian Raeburn, who recognised the need for rail security through their experience working in rail electrification, construction and safety services.
The company now monitors around 65 railway sites throughout the country.
It will use the funding from NPIF – Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia Fund Managers and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, to expand its stock of eco-friendly wireless CCTV security towers.
Powered by hydrogen fuel cells and using 3G or 4G data, they can be used even on remote sites and rapidly deployed to monitor railway works or in response to incidents such as the Hatfield Colliery landslide in 2013.
Connor Dixon, the company’s technology operations manager, said:
“Demand for our services is growing as a result of increased investment in railway infrastructure, the rise in the number of cable and equipment thefts and a greater focus on safety and suicide prevention. The funding will allow us to invest in equipment.”
Peter Sorsby, investment manager with Mercia Fund Managers, said: “Through their previous experience of the rail industry, the team at Black Diamond fully understand the security challenges and have come up with a service offering that combines traditional dogs and guards with new technology to overcome them. They play a valuable role, not only in preventing thefts and vandalism but also in saving lives. The funding will help to support the continued growth of the business.”
